A great introduction to Cuba, away from the beach resorts. The cycling is easy and the general arrangements were very good. Good hire bikes. On the down side the Havana hotel (Occidental Miramar) is truelly awful and should be replaced with something much smaller and much more central. The group size of 16 is too large, suggest limit to say 8 people (I realise this could increase costs but the benefits would be well worth it.)
- What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Visiting the smaller town en-route. These are a real joy with something of the way of cuban life accessible.
Some great music and dancing that was not just a show for the tourists.
- What did you think of your group leader?
Very good (refering to Hose, the local leader who accommpanied the trip throughout). Clearly passionate about Cuba and really knew his facts. Very jovial and enjoyable company. He did show a few signs of fatique and maybe he is being overworked with so many back-to-back trips. This will inevitably reflect upon performance in due course.
No idea of the purpose of the Havana tour rep. Lucy. Whilst pleasant enough she was not at all necessary as far as I could see.
- Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Find your own resturants/bars/music etc. rather than just follow the leader or the whole group. There are very many to choose from, Cuba is easy to get around and safe, so just go for it.
Carry some loo roll. Many toilets dont have any.
Be prepared for a few failures eg power, menu options etc. Nothing serious however.
Learn some basics of Spanish and Salsa dancing if you need to.
They use a lot of rum in the cocktails so beware.
- Is there anything else you would like to add?
Avoid using Virgin for the group flights. They are fast going the way of Ryan Air, very limited space, very poor meals and service, long check-in lines etc. etc. Try to allow people to check-in on-line.
Change the Havana hotel! The Miramar is too big, full of obese Germans, has a poor resturant but above all is 8 miles from downtown where you need to be. If possible use a smaller, downtown hotel. Yes, it may cost a little more but it will be worthwhile. The other hotels, even with a few failures, were great.
At 16 people the group size felt too large. Often waiting for someone. Having a vehice both in front and immediately behind the group felt oppresive and restrictive at times. Suggest limit to max 8 people.
Could possibly extend the time cycling with some reduction of the bus travel.
from 62 reviews.
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